Over the past period, three Participatory Learning and Action (PLA) workshops were successfully held in Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina as part of the ongoing process of reviewing and strengthening Program Y, ensuring it continues to respond to the realities and emerging challenges young people face today
PLA is a participatory research methodology that works with young people, not about them. Through interactive discussions, mapping exercises, reflection activities, and collaborative group work, young people actively share their experiences, perspectives, and ideas, helping shape the future direction of youth programming.
During the three workshops, participants explored the changes they observe in their communities, relationships, and everyday lives, while identifying emerging issues that increasingly affect young people. Particular attention was given to topics such as online violence, harmful digital influences, the impact of social media and technology on relationships, identity, and mental wellbeing.
The insights and recommendations gathered through the PLA process will directly contribute to the further development of Program Y, ensuring that its approaches and activities remain relevant, evidence-based, and responsive to the evolving needs of young people across the region.
Meaningful youth participation is at the heart of sustainable social change. By listening to young people’s voices, learning from their experiences, and adapting our programs accordingly, we continue to build safer, healthier, and more gender-equitable communities for all.
The project is supported by Marie Ebert Stiftung in partnership with CE8 from Belgrade, SPIN from Mostar, and IPD from Sarajevo.
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